China Used Embassies to Undermine Rafale Jets After India’s Operation Sindoor: French Intel

China allegedly launched a covert diplomatic campaign to discredit France’s Rafale fighter jets following India’s Operation Sindoor against Pakistan, according to French intelligence sources cited in an Associated Press report.

The operation, which involved Rafale jets in a high-profile cross-border strike, reportedly triggered Beijing to instruct defence attachés in its embassies worldwide to sow doubt about the aircraft’s performance and reliability. The goal, officials say, was to undermine Rafale sales and weaken France’s defense partnerships, particularly in Asia.

Rafale jets, produced by French aerospace giant Dassault Aviation, are a cornerstone of France’s defense exports. Their success has been crucial not only for the French arms industry but also for boosting Paris’s geopolitical ties — especially with countries wary of China’s expanding regional influence.

The alleged Chinese campaign comes amid growing arms competition in Asia and reflects Beijing’s concern over India’s enhanced strike capabilities and France’s increasing defense footprint in the Indo-Pacific.

France has not publicly responded to the report, but the revelation is likely to add new strain to already complex relations between Beijing and Paris.